Looking closely at algebra, its historical development, and its many useful applications, Algebra examines in detail the question of why this type of math is so important that it arose in different cultures at different times. The book also discusses the relationship between algebra and geometry, shows the progress of thought throughout the centuries,... more...

Covering the many aspects of geometry, this volume of the History of Mathematics series presents a compelling look at mathematical theories alongside historical occurrences. The engaging and informative text, complemented by photographs and illustrations, introduces students to the fascinating story of how geometry has developed. Biographical information... more...

Examining the pioneering ideas, works, and applications that have made math the language of science, Mathematics and the Laws of Nature looks at the many ways in which so-called ''pure'' math has been used in the applied sciences. For example, the volume explores how mathematical theories contributed to the development of Kepler's laws of planetary... more...

Numbers deals with the development of numbers from fractions to algebraic numbers to transcendental numbers to complex numbers and their uses. The book also examines in detail the number pi, the evolution of the idea of infinity, and the representation of numbers in computers. The metric and American systems of measurement as well as the applications... more...

Probability and Statistics provides a detailed look at the many aspects of this branch of mathematical investigation. Covering everything from ancient games of chance played around the world and the theories of Fermat and Pascal to phrenology, the specious use of statistics, and statistical methods to stop epidemics, this book offers a comprehensive... more...

Of all the problems associated with energy production, none is more complex than those associated with the production of biofuels, including plant matter, animal wastes, and municipal wastes. This book describes the ways that biofuels are used and the technical, social, policy, and environmental consequences of large-scale consumption. more...

Coal and oil are two of the world's most important sources of primary energy. A multi-trillion dollar infrastructure has been created to locate, produce, transport, process, and burn coal and oil. This title describes the history of these sources of energy. It focuses on global dependence on these resources. more...

Whether solid, liquid, or gaseous, the phase of a fuel has important implications for how it can be used. In US approximately 20 per cent of the nation's electricity is obtained from natural gas-fired power plants. This book describes the technology and scale of the infrastructure that has evolved to produce, transport, and consume natural gas. more...

Commercial nuclear power has long been one of the most controversial of all power-generating technologies, but the debate has not always been particularly informed. This book discusses the physics and technology of energy production, reactor design, nuclear safety, and attempts made by the US to resolve the problem of nuclear waste disposal. more...

Solar energy and geothermal energy have a good deal in common. They are abundant and widely, if unevenly, distributed. Describing the nature of solar and geothermal energy and the processes by which these sources of energy can be harnessed, this book details how they are used in practice to supply electricity to the power markets. more...